System and method for providing prepaid telecommunication services

ABSTRACT

The present invention relates to a system and method for providing prepaid telecommunication services. More particularly, prepaid telephone calls can be made by users without entering any access code, if such calls are made from telephone numbers previously registered in the telecommunication system in connection with valid access codes. Prepaid telephone calls can also be made from non-registered telephone numbers after providing the telecommunication system with a valid access code.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No.11/082,552 filed on Mar. 17, 2005, now U.S. Pat. No. 7,295,658, which isa continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/255,795 filed onSep. 26, 2002, now U.S. Pat. No. 6,873,690, which is a non-provisionalapplication relating to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No.60/364,614 filed on Mar. 15, 2002.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to a system and method for providingtelecommunication services and, more particularly, to a system andmethod for providing prepaid telephone calling services.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Prepaid telephone calling cards have been in wide use for making localand long distance telephone calls. These calling cards are typicallysold in fixed value increments (e.g., $10, $20, etc.) at variousdistribution centers, such as retail stores. Because prepaid telephonecalling card services are accessed with access codes (i.e., personalidentification numbers or PINs) and do not hence require coins, prepaidcalling cards are especially convenient for making telephone calls frompublic pay phones.

In order to make a telephone call with a typical prepaid calling card, adesignated access telephone number (e.g., an 1-800 telephone number) isdialed by the cardholder for accessing an associated computerizedcalling system. When the call is connected to the calling system, thecardholder is prompted to enter the access code or PIN printed on thecalling card. If the access code is correctly entered, the call isconnected to a desired destination telephone number, and an appropriatecharge is deducted from the account or balance associated with theaccess code.

While prepaid calling cards have been popular, there is a need to makeadditional improvements to enhance their usefulness and convenience. Forinstance, because each prepaid telephone call requires the entry of anaccess code, call processing is delayed.

Various prepaid telecommunication systems and methods have beendeveloped (see, for instance, U.S. Patent Publication No. US2001/0028705 A1 and U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,825,863, 6,188,752, 6,208,851 and6,236,851). However, these systems and methods are believed to havelimited applicability.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present invention overcomes the disadvantages and shortcomingsdiscussed above by providing an improved method for providing a prepaidtelephone calling card service using a call processor including anaccount database which has account records corresponding to a pluralityof prepaid accounts. More particularly, in accordance with this method,registered telephone numbers are stored in the database, each of theregistered telephone numbers being associated with one of the accounts.A telephone call originating from a first telephone number is connectedto the call processor. The call processor then determines whether thefirst telephone number corresponds to one of the registered telephonenumbers. If the first telephone number corresponds to one of theregistered telephone numbers, the call is connected to a secondtelephone number provided during the call. The present invention alsoprovides a prepaid calling card system for performing the functionsdiscussed above.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

For a more complete understanding of the present invention, reference ismade to the following detailed description of an exemplary embodimentconsidered in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which:

FIG. 1 is a schematic illustration of a prepaid telecommunication systemin accordance with the present invention;

FIG. 2 is a schematic flow chart illustrating a registration process ofthe present invention for registering a desired telephone number in thetelecommunication system;

FIG. 3 is a schematic flow chart illustrating a calling process of thepresent invention without the entry of an access code;

FIG. 4 is a schematic flow chart illustrating a calling process of thepresent invention requiring the entry of an access code;

FIG. 5 is a schematic flow chart illustrating a balance transfer processof the present invention;

FIG. 5A is a schematic flow chart illustrating a modified version of thebalance transfer process shown in FIG. 5;

FIG. 6 is a schematic flow chart illustrating an origination numberchanging process of the present invention;

FIG. 7 is a schematic illustration of a telephone calling card adaptedfor use in connection with the telecommunication system illustrated inFIG. 1;

FIG. 8A is a simplified representation of a PIN conversion databasetable contained in the telecommunication system illustrated in FIG. 1;

FIG. 8B is a simplified representation of a balance database tablecontained in the telecommunication system illustrated in FIG. 1;

FIGS. 9-11B are schematic illustrations of the PIN conversion table andthe balance table shown in FIGS. 8A and 8B, respectively, during theoperation of the telecommunication system;

FIG. 12 is a schematic flow chart illustrating a modified version of theregistration process shown in FIG. 2; and

FIG. 13 is a schematic flow chart illustrating a modified version of thecalling processes shown in FIGS. 3 and 4.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

A prepaid telecommunication system and method in accordance with thepresent invention will be discussed in detail hereinafter. In thisregard, it should be noted that the following discussion is illustrativeof the present invention and is not meant to limit the scope of thepresent invention.

Referring to FIG. 1, a prepaid telecommunication system (e.g., a callprocessor) 10 in accordance with the present invention is connected to apublic switch telephone network 12 (hereinafter “the PSTN”) and includesan interactive voice response unit 14 (hereinafter “the IVR unit”). Asis conventional in the telecommunication field, telecommunicationdevices 16, such as private telephones, public pay phones, mobile orcellular phones, etc., are connected to the PSTN 12, which include localexchanges (not shown), such that the IVR unit 14 can be accessed fromthe telecommunication devices 16. The IVR unit 14 is programmed toperform a number of automated customer service functions, such asorigination number registration, balance replenishment, etc., as will bediscussed in greater detail hereinafter. A customer service center 18 isconnected to the IVR unit 14 via a local or wide area network so thatcustomer service representatives can provide personal or manualassistance to users of the telecommunication system 10.

A main database server 20 is also provided for storing an accountdatabase containing prepaid account records, which will be discussed ingreater detail hereinbelow. The main database server 20, which isconstructed in a manner similar to that of a main database server usedin a conventional prepaid telephone calling card system, is connected tothe IVR unit 14 via a local or wide area network 22 (e.g., a TCP/IPbased WAN/LAN). In this manner, data can be transmitted between the IVRunit 14 and the main database server 20 for the performance of automatedcustomer service functions by the IVR unit 14.

Still referring to FIG. 1, the telecommunication system 10 also includesa switch unit 24, which is constructed and operates in a manner similarto that of a switch unit of a conventional prepaid telephone callingcard system. More particularly, the switch unit 24, which is adapted toreceive and connect prepaid telephone calls to requested destinationnumbers, includes a switch database server 26, a host server 28 and aswitch 30. The switch database server 26 and the main database server 20are interconnected to each other so that data can be transmittedtherebetween. For instance, account records can be downloaded from themain database server 20 and stored and/or updated locally in the switchdatabase server 26 for use by the switch unit 24 in providing prepaidtelecommunication services. The account records stored and/or updatedlocally in the switch database server 26 can be uploaded periodicallyonto the main database server 20 for synchronizing the main databaseserver records to the local switch database server records and viceversa. In this manner, when the telecommunication system 10 is equippedwith multiple switch units, call processing can be conducted “locally”in each switch unit. As is conventional, the switch 30 is connected tothe PSTN 12 for connecting prepaid telephone calls to requesteddestination numbers.

The telecommunication system 10 permits its users to make prepaidtelephone calls either with or without an access code (i.e., a personalidentification number or PIN), depending upon where the calls are madefrom. As used herein, the term “prepaid PINless calling” or “prepaidPINless call” shall denote the process of making a, prepaid telephonecall without the entry of a PIN, while the term “prepaid PIN calling” or“prepaid PIN call” shall denote the process of making a prepaidtelephone call with a PIN (i.e., after the entry of a PIN). In order tomake prepaid PINless calls from desired telephone numbers (referred tohereinafter as “origination numbers”), such as home telephone lines,office telephone lines, etc., the user needs to register such telephonenumbers with the telecommunication system 10. Prepaid PIN calls can bemade from any non-registered telephone numbers or lines (e.g., publicpay phones) in a conventional manner.

With reference to FIG. 7, prepaid telephone calling cards 32 havingpredetermined values (e.g., $10.00) are sold by vendors or distributors.Alternatively, the telephone calling cards 32 can be distributed free ofcharge for promotional purposes. The telephone calling cards 32 haveappropriate instructions 34 for accessing the telecommunication system10. In this regard, each of the telephone calling cards 32 includes anaccess code 36 (i.e., a personal identification number or PIN). Each ofthe telephone calling cards 32 also includes a registration telephonenumber 38 for use by the cardholder in registering a desired originationnumber (i.e., a telephone number from which the cardholder wishes tomake prepaid PINless calls). The registration telephone number 38 canalso be used to access customer-related services (e.g., changing theregistered origination number, replenishing the balance of his or hercalling card, accessing a customer service representative, etc.). Eachcalling card 32 also has a PIN access telephone number 40 and a PINlessaccess telephone number 42. More particularly, the PIN access telephonenumber 40 is to be used by the cardholder for making prepaid PIN calls,while the PINless access telephone number 42 is to be used by thecardholder for making prepaid PINless calls.

In accordance with the present invention, account records relating toeach issued calling card 32 are stored in the main database server 20and/or the switch database server 26 so that they can be accessed when aprepaid telephone call is made by the cardholder. For instance, theaccount records include a balance database table 44 (see FIG. 8B) havinga PIN column or field 46, which contains a list of PINs (e.g., P1, P2,P3) associated with issued calling cards 32, and a balance column orfield 48, which contains balances corresponding to the PINs P1, P2, P3listed in the PIN column 46. Each time a call is made through thetelecommunication system 10 in connection with a particular PIN, thetelecommunication system 10 deducts an appropriate charge from thecorresponding balance in a manner similar to those of conventionalprepaid telephone calling card systems.

Now referring to FIG. 8A, the account records also include a PINconversion database table 50 having a registration number column orfield 52 and an ANI/PIN column or field 54. When a cardholder uses hisor her PIN (e.g., P1) to register an origination number A1 (i.e. atelephone number from which a user wishes to make prepaid PINlesscalls), the origination number A1 is added to the ANI/PIN column 54 bythe main database server 20 (see FIG. 9). The PIN P1 is also enteredinto the registration number column 52 by the main database server 20 asa key identifier or a registration number such that the registeredorigination number A1 can be corresponded to the PIN P1, as will bediscussed in greater detail hereinafter.

The account records of the main database server 20 and/or the switchdatabase server 26 can also contain other information conventional inthe prepaid telephone calling card field. For instance, the accountrecords can include a rate chart, which can be part of the balance table44 or the PIN conversion table 50 or can be a separate table.

Having discussed various components of the telecommunication system 10,automated (e.g., computerized) processes utilized by thetelecommunication system 10 in providing prepaid telecommunicationservices will be discussed in detail hereinbelow.

The Origination Number Registration Process

When a telephone calling card 32 (see FIG. 7) is obtained or received bya user or customer, an origination number A1 needs to be registered inthe telecommunication system 10 in order to make PINless calls from thatorigination number A1. While any desired origination numbers can beregistered with the telecommunication system 10, for security reasons,telephones or telephone lines which are not generally accessible bythird parties (e.g., home telephones, office telephones, personal mobileor cellular phones, etc.) are particularly suitable for registration.

Now referring to FIGS. 1 and 2, in order to register a desiredorigination number A1, the cardholder dials the registration telephonenumber 38 (see FIG. 7) from any phone (e.g., a home phone line or apublic pay phone) to access the IVR unit 14 of the telecommunicationsystem 10. When the call is connected to the IVR unit 14, the caller isprompted with various options, including an option for originationnumber registration. The caller then selects the origination numberregistration option (step 56). The IVR unit 14 also captures theautomatic number identification code (hereinafter “ANI”) of thetelephone number or line from which the call originates in aconventional manner (step 58). The caller is then prompted to enter thePIN P1 appearing on his or her calling card (step 60). When the PIN P1is entered by the caller (step 62), the IVR unit 14 sends the enteredPIN P1 to the main database server 20 via the WAN/LAN 22. The maindatabase server 20 then checks its database to determine whether theentered PIN P1 is valid in a conventional manner (step 64). If theentered PIN P1 is determined to be an invalid PIN (i.e., the entered PINP1 does not correspond to any PIN stored in the main database server20), an appropriate error message (e.g., “YOUR PIN IS INVALID”) isplayed by the IVR unit 14, and the call is terminated (step 66).

Assuming that the entered PIN P1 is a valid PIN (i.e., the entered PINP1 corresponds to a PIN stored in the main database server 20), the IVRunit 14 prompts the caller to enter a desired origination number A1 atstep 68 (i.e., the telephone number the caller wishes to register formaking prepaid PINless calls). After the entry of the origination numberA1 by the caller (step 70), the entered origination number A1 iscompared to the detected ANI by the IVR unit 14 (step 72). If theentered origination number A1 corresponds to the detected ANI (e.g., ifthe call is made from the entered origination number A1), the maindatabase server 20 performs registration steps to be discussedhereinafter. If, on the other hand, the entered origination number A1does not correspond to the detected ANI (e.g., if the call is made froma telephone number or line other than the entered origination number A1,if the ANI is not detected by the IVR unit 14, etc.), the IVR unit 14prompts the caller to re-enter the origination number for verificationpurposes (step 74). The IVR unit 14 then determines whether theoriginally entered origination number corresponds to the subsequentlyentered origination number (step 76). In the event that the subsequentlyentered origination number does not correspond to the originally enteredorigination number, an appropriate error message (e.g., “THE ENTEREDORIGINATION NUMBER IS INVALID”) is played by the IVR unit 14 (step 78),and the caller is routed back to the origination number entering step68. If, after a predetermined number of tries, the caller is stillunable to provide the IVR unit 14 with an origination number that isproperly verified with a subsequently entered origination number (step80), the call is routed to a customer service representative for manualregistration (step 82).

Still referring to FIG. 2, if the entered origination number A1corresponds to the captured ANI at step 72 or if the subsequentlyentered origination number corresponds to the originally enteredorigination number at step 76, the IVR unit 14 transmits the enteredorigination number A1 to the main database server 20. The main databaseserver 20 then checks the PIN conversion table 50 (see FIG. 8A)containing a database of registered origination numbers to determinewhether the entered origination number A1 is already registered inconnection with any PIN (step 84). This checking step is performed so asto prevent an origination number from being registered in connectionwith multiple PINS, simplifying the administration of prepaid telephonecalling card services (e.g., if a prepaid call is made from anorigination number registered in connection with two or more PINS, thecaller needs to be prompted with the option of selecting a desired PIN,thereby complicating the calling process). If the entered originationnumber A1 is an already registered number, an appropriate error message(e.g., “YOUR ORIGINATION NUMBER IS ALREADY REGISTERED”) is played by theIVR unit 14 (step 86). The caller is then asked whether he or she wishesto replenish his or her account and is routed to account replenishmentsteps to be discussed hereinafter.

With reference to FIGS. 2 and 9, if the main database server 20determines at step 84 that the entered origination number A1 is not apreviously registered number, it enters or creates an appropriate recordin the PIN conversion table 50 (step 88). More particularly, the maindatabase server 20 appends the entered origination number A1 to theANI/PIN column 54 of the PIN conversion table 50. The main databaseserver 20 also appends the entered PIN P1 to the registration numbercolumn 52 of the PIN conversion table 50 as a registration number or keyidentifier for the registered origination number A1. An appropriateconfirmation message is then played by the IVR unit 14 to inform thecaller that the origination number A1 has successfully been registered(step 90).

After the confirmation message is played by the IVR unit 14, the calleris asked by the IVR unit 14 whether he or she wishes to register anotherorigination number (e.g., an office telephone number) in connection withthe same PIN P1 (i.e., the registration number or the key identifier) atstep 92. If the caller chooses not to do so, the call is terminated(step 94).

Assuming that the caller chooses the option of registering anotherorigination number, the main database server 20 checks the total numberof origination numbers registered in connection with the registrationnumber (i.e., the PIN P1) at step 96. If the total number of registeredorigination numbers is greater than a predetermined number, anappropriate error message is played by the IVR unit 14 (step 98), andthe call is terminated. This checking process is conducted in order tolimit the total number of origination numbers registerable in connectionwith any one registration number for the purpose of facilitating theadministration of prepaid telephone calling card services.Alternatively, this checking process can be eliminated.

At step 96, if the total number of registered origination numbers doesnot exceed a predetermine number, the call is routed back to the step 68of prompting for the entry of an origination number. Upon successfulregistration of another origination number A2, the main database server20 appends same to the ANI/PIN column 54 of the PIN conversion table 50(see FIG. 10). The main database server 20 also appends the associatedregistration number (i.e., the PIN P1) to the registration number column52 of the PIN conversion table 50 (see FIG. 10). An appropriateconfirmation message is then played by the IVR unit 14 to inform thecaller that the origination number A2 has been successfully registered(step 90).

The PINless Calling Process

With reference to FIGS. 1 and 3, after the successful registration ofone or more origination numbers, the registered phone or phone line isready for prepaid PINless calling. In order to make a prepaid PINlesscall, the caller dials the PINless access telephone number 42 (see FIG.7) from the registered phone or phone line (i.e., the registeredorigination number A1 or A2) and the call is routed to the switch 30 viathe PSTN 12 (step 100). When the call is connected to the switch 30, theANI of the registered phone or phone line is captured by the switch 30in a conventional manner and is transmitted to the switch databaseserver 26 (step 102). The switch database server 26 then compares thecaptured ANI to the records contained in the ANI/PIN column 54 of thePIN conversion table 50 (see FIG. 10), which is downloaded from the maindatabase server 20, for verification purposes (step 104). If thecaptured ANI does not correspond to any registered origination numbers,an appropriate error message (e.g., “YOUR TELEPHONE IS NOT REGISTEREDFOR THIS SERVICE”) is played by the switch 30, and the call isdisconnected (step 106) or routed to the IVR unit 14 for originationnumber registration. If, on the other hand, the captured ANI correspondsto a registered origination number A1 or A2, the switch database server26 transmits the corresponding key identifier P1 (i.e., the PIN P1corresponding to the registered origination number A1 or A2 in the PINconversion table 50) to the switch 30 along with the account balanceassociated therewith (step 108).

Upon receiving the key identifier P1 and the balance from the switchdatabase server 26, the host server 28 conducts an “in-use” check forthe purpose of determining whether the received key identifier P1 is inuse (i.e., whether another call is in progress using the same keyidentifier P1) at step 110. If the key identifier is in use, anappropriate error message (e.g., “YOUR PIN IS IN USE”) is played by theswitch 30, and the call is disconnected (step 112). The “in-use” checkis a administrative and/or security feature, preventing the cardholderfrom making multiple calls using the same PIN P1 at the same time.Alternatively, the “in-use” check step 110 can be eliminated.

Still referring to FIGS. 1 and 3, if the host server 28 determines thatthe returned key identifier P1 is not in use, it registers the keyidentifier P1 as being in use so as to block any subsequent prepaidcalls using the key identifier P1 (step 114) while the current call isin progress. The switch 30 then informs the caller of the availableaccount balance corresponding to the key identifier P1, and prompts thecaller to enter a destination telephone number (step 116). After theentry of a destination telephone number by the caller (step 118), theswitch 30 dials the entered destination telephone number and thenconnects the caller to the destination telephone number in aconventional manner (step 120). When the call is terminated at step 122(e.g., by the caller), the switch database server 26 updates the balancecorresponding to the key identifier P1 (step 124) and removes the keyidentifier P1 from the registry of key identifiers that are in use(i.e., unblocks the key identifier P1 for subsequent use) at step 126.The call can also be terminated by the switch unit 24 in a conventionalmanner (e.g., when the balance runs out).

The PIN Calling Process

Now referring to FIGS. 1 and 4, in order to make a prepaid PIN call froma non-registered phone or phone line, the caller dials the PIN accesstelephone number 40 (see FIG. 7), and the call is routed to the switch30 via the PSTN 12 (step 138). When the call is connected to thetelecommunication system 10, the switch 30 prompts the caller to enterhis or her PIN (step 140). After the entry of a PIN by the caller (step142), the switch database server 26 compares the entered PIN to itsdatabase (e.g., the PIN conversion table 50) in a conventional mannerfor the purpose of determining whether the entered PIN is valid (step144). If the entered PIN is invalid (i.e., it does not correspond to anyof the PINs stored in the PIN conversion table 50 or the balance table44), an appropriate error message is played by the switch 30, and thecall is disconnected (step 146). If, on the other hand, the entered PINis a valid PIN (i.e., it corresponds to a PIN stored in the PINconversion table 50 or the balance table 44), the switch database server26 transmits the key identifier (e.g., the PIN P1) to the switch 30along with the corresponding account balance (step 148).

Upon receiving the key identifier and the balance from the switchdatabase server 26, the host server 28 conducts an “in-use” check on thereceived key identifier (step 150). If the received key identifier is inuse (i.e., if another prepaid call is in progress using the same keyidentifier), an appropriate error message is played by the switch unit24, and the call is disconnected (step 152). If, on the other hand, thekey identifier is not in use, the host server 28 registers the keyidentifier as being in use so as to block subsequent prepaid calls whilethe current call is in progress (step 154). The switch 30 then informsthe caller of the available account balance and prompts the caller toenter a destination telephone number (step 156). After the entry of adestination number (step 158), the switch 30 dials the destinationnumber and connects the caller to the destination number (step 160).When the call is terminated (e.g., by the caller) at step 162, theswitch database server 26 updates the available balance (step 164) andremoves the key identifier from the registry of key identifiers that arein use (i.e., unblocks the key identifier) at step 166.

The Balance Transfer Process

The telecommunication system 10 allows cardholders to replenish thebalance of their calling cards by way of balance transfers. Moreparticularly, the telecommunication system 10 allows a cardholder totransfer the balance of a calling card to the balance of a previouslyregistered PIN or key identifier (i.e., a PIN which has been used toregister one or more origination numbers). In this manner, the balanceof the registered PIN can be continuously replenished, and the PINlesscalling feature set up in connection with the registered PIN can bemaintained. In other words, when the balance of the registered PIN runsout, it is not necessary to purchase a new card and set up the samePINless calling feature with the new card. The balance of a previouslyregistered PIN or key identifier can also be replenished using methodsthat are conventional in the prepaid telephone calling card field (e.g.,replenishment by credit card).

With reference to FIG. 5, in order to transfer the balance of a callingcard to the balance of a registered PIN (e.g., the PIN P1 in FIG. 10),the cardholder calls the registration access telephone number 38 (seeFIG. 7) from either a registered phone or a non-registered phone (step178). When the call is connected to the IVR unit 14, the ANI of thetelephone number from which the call originates is captured by the IVRunit 14 and then sent to the main database server 20 (step 180). Afterselecting the balance transfer option, the caller is prompted by the IVRunit 14 at step 181 to enter the PIN (e.g., the PIN P2 in FIG. 8B) of acalling card which the caller wishes to transfer balance from (referredto hereinafter as “the balance transfer card”). When the PIN P2 of thebalance transfer card is entered by the caller (step 182), it istransmitted by the IVR unit 14 to the main database server 20 forauthentication (step 184). If the entered PIN P2 is an invalid PIN(i.e., if the entered PIN P2 does not correspond to a PIN stored in themain database server 20), the caller is prompted with an appropriateerror message by the IVR unit 14, and the call is terminated (step 186).

Assuming that the entered PIN P2, at step 184, is determined to be avalid PIN having a sufficient balance, the main database server 20compares the captured ANI to the ANI/PIN column 54 of the PIN conversiontable 50 (step 188). If the captured ANI corresponds to a registeredorigination number (i.e., if the call is made from a registered phone),the telecommunication system 10 proceeds to balance transfer steps to bediscussed hereinafter. Otherwise, the IVR unit 14 prompts the caller toenter a previously registered PIN (i.e., the registration number or keyidentifier) at step 190. After the entry of the registered PIN P1 by thecaller (step 192), the main database server 20 compares the enteredregistered PIN P1 to the registration number column 52 of the PINconversion table 50 (see FIG. 10) at step 194. If the entered registeredPIN P1 is a valid registration number, the telecommunication system 10proceeds to balance transfer steps to be discussed hereinafter.

If, at step 194, the entered PIN P1 is determined to be an invalidregistration number, the IVR unit 14 prompts the caller to enter his orher registered origination number (i.e., the origination number thecaller previously registered) at step 196. In response to the entry ofan origination number (e.g., the origination number A1 in FIG. 10) atstep 198, the IVR unit 14 transmits the entered origination number A1 tothe main database server 20, which compares the entered originationnumber A1 to the ANI/PIN column 54 of the PIN conversion table 50 tocheck whether the entered origination number A1 is a registeredorigination number (step 200). If the entered origination number A1 isnot a registered origination number, the IVR unit 14 prompts the callerwith an appropriate error message and terminates the call (step 202).

Referring back to steps 188, 194 and 200, if the captured ANI is aregistered ANI (step 188), if the entered registration number P1 is avalid registration number (step 194) or if the entered originationnumber A1 is a registered origination number (step 200), the maindatabase server 20 retrieves the corresponding key identifier (i.e., thecorresponding PIN P1 contained in the registration number column 52 ofthe PIN conversion table 50) at step 204. The main database server 20then updates the balance table 44 by setting the balance of the PIN P2of the balance transfer card to zero at step 206 (see FIG. 11B) andincreasing the balance of the key identifier P1 by an appropriate amountat step 208 (see FIG. 11B). The main database server 20 then registersthe PIN P2 of the balance transfer card to the ANI/PIN column 54 of thePIN conversion table 50 and associates same with the key identifier P1in the registration number column 52 at step 210 (see FIG. 11A).

When the PIN P2 of the balance transfer card (hereinafter “the added PINP2”) is registered in the PIN conversion table 50, even though itscorresponding balance in the balance table 44 is zero, the user cancontinue to use same in making prepaid PIN calls. More particularly,when the added PIN P2 is entered to make a prepaid PIN call (see step142 in FIG. 4), the switch database server 26 searches through the PINconversion table 50 to locate the added PIN P2. When the added PIN P2 islocated in the ANI/PIN column 54 of the PIN conversion table 50, the keyidentifier P1 (i.e., the originally registered PIN P1) and the balanceassociated therewith are retrieved by the switch database server 26 forcall processing.

It should be noted that the balance transfer process illustrated in FIG.5 can be modified in numerous ways. For instance, if the captured ANIdoes not correspond to a registered origination number at step 188, thecaller can be prompted to enter his or her registered origination number(see step 196 in FIG. 5A) rather than a previously registered PIN (i.e.,a registration number or key identifier). Since it is easier for thecardholder to remember the registered origination number (e.g., his orher home or office telephone number), this modification enhances theuser-friendliness of the telecommunication system 10. If the originationnumber entered by the caller corresponds to a registered originationnumber contained in the database (see steps 196, 198, 200 in FIG. 5A),the main database 20 retrieves the corresponding key identifier (seestep 204). The switch unit 24 and/or the main database server 20 thencheck their records to determine that the prepaid account correspondingto the PIN entered at step 182 (i.e., the PIN of the balance transfercard) is in current use or has been in use previously (step 205). If theaccount of the balance transfer card is not in current use and has notbeen in use previously (step 207), the balance updating steps 206, 208,210 can be performed as discussed above. The “in-use” and“in-previous-use” checks conducted at step 205 are security featurespreventing the transfer of the balance of the balance transfer card ifit is in current use or if it has been used previously. Alternatively,the “in-use” and “in-previous-use” checks can be eliminated.

If the entered origination number does not correspond to any registeredorigination number at step 200, the caller can then be prompted to entera previously registered PIN (i.e., a registration number or keyidentifier) at step 190 in FIG. 5A. Assuming that the PIN entered by thecaller is determined to be valid at the PIN verification step 194, thebalance updating steps 204, 206, 208, 210 can be performed.

The Origination Number Changing Process

With reference to FIGS. 1 and 6, after the registration of anorigination number, the registered origination number can be changed toanother telephone number. In order to do so, the user calls theregistration telephone number 38 (see FIG. 7) to be connected to the IVRunit 14 (step 212). When the call is connected, the IVR unit 14 capturesthe ANI of the telephone number from which the call originates (step214). The main database server 20 then compares the captured ANI to theorigination numbers registered in the ANI/PIN column 54 of the PINconversion table 50 (step 216). If the captured ANI corresponds to aregistered origination number, the IVR unit 14 asks the caller whetherhe or she wishes to change the registered origination number to anothernumber (step 218). If the caller confirms, the IVR unit 14 performsorigination number changing steps to be discussed hereinafter.

Still referring to FIGS. 1 and 6, if the captured ANI is determined tobe invalid at step 216 or if the caller does not confirm at step 218,the IVR unit 14 then prompts the caller to enter his or her registrationnumber (i.e., the original PIN used to register the origination number)at step 220. After the entry of a registration number by the caller(step 222), the main database server 20 determines whether the enteredregistration number is a valid registration number. If the enteredregistration number is not a valid registration number, an appropriateerror message (e.g., “THE ENTERED REGISTRATION NUMBER IS INVALID”) isplayed by the IVR unit 14, and the call is terminated or forwarded to acustomer service representative (step 224).

Assuming that the entered registration number is a valid registrationnumber, the caller is then prompted to enter the registered originationnumber to be changed (step 226). When the caller enters the registeredorigination number (step 228), the main database server 20 checks itsdatabase to determine whether the entered origination number is a validorigination number (i.e., one that is registered in the PIN conversiontable 50 in connection with the entered registration number) at step230. If the entered origination number is not a valid originationnumber, an appropriate error message (e.g., “THE ENTERED ORIGINATIONNUMBER IS INVALID”) is played by the IVR unit 14, and the caller isrouted back to step 226 for re-entry of a registered origination number.If, after a predetermined number of tries, the re-entered originationnumber is still invalid, an appropriate error message is played by theIVR unit 14, and the call is terminated or forwarded to a customerservice representative (step 232).

If the caller confirms at step 218 or if the entered origination numberis determined to be valid at step 230, origination number replacementsteps are performed. More particularly, the IVR unit 14 prompts thecaller to enter a new origination number (step 233). After the entry ofa new origination number by the caller (step 234), the main databaseserver 20 checks the PIN conversion table 50 to determine whether theentered new origination number is already registered in connection withanother PIN (step 236). If the entered new origination number is onethat is already registered with another PIN, the caller is prompted withan appropriate error message (e.g., “THE ENTERED NEW ORIGINATION NUMBERIS AN ALREADY REGISTERED NUMBER”) by the IVE unit 14 (step 238) and isgiven an option to re-try. In the event that the caller opts to retry,he or she is routed back to the new origination number entering step234. Otherwise, the call is terminated (step 240).

Referring back to step 236, if the caller enters a new originationnumber that is not previously registered, the main database server 20updates the PIN conversion table 50 by removing the original originationnumber and replacing same with the new origination number (step 242).The IVR unit 14 confirms that the origination number has successfullybeen changed (step 244), and the call is terminated.

FIGS. 12 and 13 illustrate modified versions of the origination numberregistration process shown in FIG. 2 and the calling processes shown inFIGS. 3 and 4, respectively. Each of the modified processes illustratedin FIGS. 12 and 13 will be discussed hereinafter.

The Origination Number Registration Process

Referring to FIG. 12, in order to register a desired origination numberA1 (e.g., a home telephone number), the registration telephone number 38(see FIG. 7) is dialed by the cardholder from any phone or phone line(e.g., a home phone or a public pay phone) to access the IVR unit 14 ofthe telecommunication system 10 (see FIG. 1). When the call is connectedto the IVR unit 14, the caller is prompted with various options,including an option for origination number registration. The caller thenselects the origination number registration option (step 246). The IVRunit 14 then captures the ANI of the telephone number or line from whichthe call originates in a conventional manner (step 248). If a properten-digit ANI is captured by the IVR unit 14 (step 250), the capturedANI is sent by the IVR unit 14 to the main database server 20 via theWAN/LAN 22 to check whether the ANI is already registered in connectionwith any PIN (step 252). This checking step is performed so as toprevent the captured ANI (i.e., an origination number) from beingregistered in connection with multiple PINs or accounts, simplifying theadministration of prepaid telephone calling card services.

Assuming that the captured ANI is not registered with any PIN, thecaller is prompted to enter the PIN (e.g., the PIN P1) appearing on hisor her calling card (step 254). When the PIN P1 is entered by the caller(step 256), the IVR unit 14 sends the entered PIN P1 to the maindatabase server 20 via the WAN/LAN 22. The main database server 20 thenchecks its database to determine in a conventional manner whether theentered PIN P1 is valid (step 258). If the entered PIN P1 does notcorrespond to any PIN stored in the main database server 20, (i.e., itdoes not correspond to any prepaid calling account pre-established inthe main database server 20), an appropriate error message (e.g., “YOURPIN IS INVALID”) is played by the IVR unit 14, and the call isterminated (step 260).

If the entered PIN P1 is a valid PIN (i.e., the entered PIN P1corresponds to a PIN stored in the main database server 20), the calleris asked by the IVR unit 14 whether he or she wishes to register thecaptured ANI (step 262). If the caller elects not to do so, the call isrouted to an origination number prompting step (step 264) to bediscussed hereinafter. If, on the other hand, the caller elects to doso, the main database server 20 enters or creates an appropriate recordin the PIN conversion table 50 (step 266). More particularly, the maindatabase server 20 appends the captured ANI (e.g., the originationnumber A1) to the ANI/PIN column 54 of the PIN conversion table 50 (seeFIG. 10). The main database server 20 also appends the entered PIN PI tothe registration number column 52 of the PIN conversion table 50 as aregistration number or key identifier for the registered originationnumber A1.

After appending the PIN conversion table 50, the main database server 20checks its database to determine whether the number of originationnumbers registered for the entered PIN P1 is less than a predeterminednumber (e.g., 3) at step 268. This checking step is performed in orderto limit the total number of origination numbers registrable inconnection with any one registration number for the purpose ofsimplifying the administration of prepaid telephone calling cardservices. If the number of registered origination numbers is greaterthan the predetermined number, the IVR unit 14 plays an appropriateconfirmation message (step 270) and then terminates the call or promptsthe caller for further options (e.g., an option of making a prepaidcall, a balance transfer option, etc.). Alternatively, this checkingprocess can be eliminated.

If, on the other hand, the number of registered origination numbers isless than the predetermined number, the caller is asked by the IVR unit14 whether he or she wishes to register another origination number(e.g., an office telephone number or line) in connection with the samePIN P1 (i.e., the registration number or the key identifier) at step272. In the event that the caller chooses not to do so, an appropriateconfirmation message is played by the IVR unit 14 (step 270), and thecall is terminated. If, on the other hand, the caller elects to registeranother origination number, the call is routed to the origination numberprompting step (step 264) to be discussed hereinafter.

Referring back to step 250, if the 10-digit ANI of the originationnumber (i.e., the telephone number or line from which the calloriginates) is not captured by the IVR unit 14, the caller is promptedto enter the PIN P1 appearing on his or her calling card (step 274).When the PIN P1 is entered by the caller (step 276), the IVR unit 14sends the entered PIN P1 to the main database server 20 via the WAN/LAN22. The main database server 20 then checks its database to determinewhether the entered PIN P1 is valid in a conventional manner (step 278).If the entered PIN P1 is determined to be an invalid PIN (i.e., theentered PIN P1 does not correspond to any PIN stored in the maindatabase server 20), an appropriate error message (e.g., “YOUR PIN ISINVALID”) is played by the IVR unit 14, and the call is terminated (step260). Alternatively, other options (e.g., re-entering the PIN) can begiven to the caller.

Assuming that the entered PIN P1 is a valid PIN (i.e., the entered PINP1 corresponds to a PIN stored in the main database server 20), the IVRunit 14 prompts the caller to enter a desired origination number A1 atstep 264 (i.e., the telephone number the caller wishes to register formaking prepaid PINless calls). After the entry of the origination numberA1 by the caller (step 280), a conventional “fat finger” test (e.g., thesteps of prompting a re-entry of the entered number and comparing theoriginally entered number to the subsequently entered number or the stepof requesting confirmation of the entered number) is performed by theIVR unit 14 to confirm that the entered origination number A1 isaccurate (step 282). Thereafter, the IVR unit 14 transmits the enteredorigination number A1 to the main database server 20. The main databaseserver 20 then checks the PIN conversion table 50 (see FIG. 8A)containing a database of registered origination numbers to determinewhether the entered origination number A1 is already registered inconnection with any PIN (step 284). If the entered origination number A1is an already registered number, an appropriate error message (e.g.,“YOUR ORIGINATION NUMBER IS ALREADY REGISTERED”) is played by the IVRunit 14, and the caller routed to the balance transfer steps discussedabove. If the main database server 20 determines at step 284 that theentered origination number A1 is not a registered number, the PINconversion table appending step 266 and the steps subsequent thereto(e.g., the steps 268, 272, 270) are performed as discussed above.

Referring back to step 252 and step 262, if the ANI captured by the IVRunit 14 is an already registered origination number (see step 252) or ifthe caller elects not to register the captured ANI (see step 262), thecall is routed to the origination number entering step 264, and thesteps subsequent thereto are performed as discussed above.

The Pre-Paid Calling Process

In the telecommunication system 10 discussed above, two different typesof access telephone numbers (i.e., the PIN access telephone number 40for making prepaid PIN calls and the PINless access telephone number 42for making prepaid PINless calls) are provided for making prepaidtelephone calls. The telecommunication system 10 can be modified suchthat only one type of access number can be provided for making bothprepaid PIN calls and PINless calls. In other words, the prepaid PINlessand PIN calling processes shown in FIGS. 3 and 4 can be combined into asingle process. A prepaid calling process using only one type of accessnumber will be discussed hereinbelow.

With reference to FIG. 13, the caller dials an access telephone numberfrom any phone or phone line (i.e., either from a registered phone or anon-registered phone, such as a public pay phone) and the call is routedto the switch 30 via the PSTN 12 (step 286). When the call is connectedto the switch 30, the switch 30 captures the ANI of the telephone numberor line from which the call is made and transmits same to the switchdatabase server 26 (step 288). The switch database server 26 thencompares the captured ANI to the records contained in the ANI/PIN column54 of the PIN conversion table 50 (see FIG. 10), which is downloadedfrom the main database server 20, for verification purposes (step 290).If the captured ANI corresponds to a registered origination number A1 orA2 (i.e., the call is made from a registered phone or phone line), theswitch database server 26 transmits the corresponding key identifier P1(i.e., the PIN P1 corresponding to the registered origination number A1or A2 in the PIN conversion table 50) to the switch 30 along with theaccount balance associated therewith (step 292).

Upon receiving the key identifier P1 and the balance from the switchdatabase server 26, the host server 28 conducts an “in-use” check forthe purpose of determining whether the received key identifier P1 is inuse (i.e., whether another call is in progress using the same keyidentifier P1) at step 294. If the key identifier P1 is in use, anappropriate error message (e.g., “YOUR PIN IS IN USE”) is played by theswitch 30, and the call is disconnected (step 296). If, on the otherhand, the host server 28 determines that the returned key identifier P1is not in use, it registers the key identifier P1 as being in use so asto block any subsequent prepaid calls using the key identifier P1 (step298) while the current call is in progress. The switch 30 then informsthe caller of the available account balance corresponding to the keyidentifier P1, and prompts the caller to enter a destination telephonenumber (step 300). After the entry of a destination telephone number bythe caller (step 302), the switch 30 dials the entered destinationtelephone number and then connects the caller to the destinationtelephone number in a conventional manner (step 304). When the call isterminated at step 306 (e.g., by the caller), the switch database server26 updates the balance corresponding to the key identifier P1 (step 308)and removes the key identifier P1 from the registry of key identifiersthat are in use (i.e., unblocks the key identifier P1 for subsequentuse) at step 310 before terminating the prepaid calling process. Thecall can also be terminated by the switch unit 24 in a conventionalmanner (e.g., when the balance runs out).

Referring back to step 290, if no ANI is captured by the switch 30 or ifthe captured ANI does not correspond to any origination numberregistered in the PIN conversion table 50 (e.g., the call is made from anon-registered phone), the switch 30 prompts the caller to enter his orher PIN (step 312). After the entry of a PIN by the caller (step 314),the switch database server 26 compares the entered PIN to its database(e.g., the PIN conversion table 50) in a conventional manner for thepurpose of determining whether the entered PIN is valid (step 316). Ifthe entered PIN is invalid (i.e., it does not correspond to any of thePINs stored in the PIN conversion table 50 or the balance table 44), anappropriate error message is played by the switch 30, and the call isdisconnected (step 296). If, on the other hand, the entered PIN is avalid PIN (i.e., it corresponds to a PIN stored in the PIN conversiontable 50 or the balance table 44), the switch database server 26transmits the corresponding key identifier (e.g., the PIN P1) to theswitch 30 along with the corresponding account balance (step 292). Theswitch 30 then connects the call to a destination telephone numberentered by the user in the manner discussed hereinabove.

The various processes of the present invention discussed above can beprovided as computer programs that can be resident in one or moredevices, such as, without limitation, the main database server 20, theswitch unit 30, the IVR unit 14 or other components of thetelecommunication system 10.

It should be appreciated that the present invention provides numerousadvantages over the conventional prepaid telephone calling cardprocesses and systems discussed above. For instance, because thetelecommunication system 10 allows its users to make prepaid telephonecalls with or without the required PIN, it provides a user-friendlysystem for making prepaid telephone calls. In addition, while prepaidPINless calls are made without the PIN, because such calls needs to bemade from previously registered phones, security is not compromised. Thepresent invention also has additional user-friendly features, such asthe balance transfer feature and the origination number change featurediscussed hereinabove.

As indicated above, the present invention can have numerousmodifications and variations. For instance, while telephone callingcards, such as the one illustrated in FIG. 7, are useful in connectionwith the present invention, they can be eliminated or replaced withother systems. By way of example, PINs can be issued directly to usersthrough a computer network, such as the Internet, thereby rendering theissuance of calling cards unnecessary. While ANIs are preferred, otheridentifying mechanisms, systems, numbers or codes can be used inconnection with the telecommunication system 10 for capturing oridentifying telephone numbers or lines from which calls are made.Moreover, the balance of telephone calling cards can be replenishedthrough a computer network, rather than through the IVR unit 14, or byway of credit card charges (e.g., automatic credit card replenishmentwhen the balance falls below a predetermined value). Thetelecommunication system 10 can also be adapted for use in connectionwith telecommunication networks other than the PSTN 12 (e.g., theInternet). Moreover, the telecommunication system 10 can be modified innumerous ways. For example, the main database server 20 and the switchdatabase server 26 can be combined so as to eliminate the transfer ofinformation therebetween.

It will be understood that the embodiment described herein is merelyexemplary and that a person skilled in the art may make many variationsand modifications without departing from the spirit and scope of theinvention. All such variations and modifications, including thosediscussed above, are intended to be included within the scope of theinvention as defined in the appended claims.

1. A method for providing telephone services using a call processorincluding an account database which has account records corresponding toa plurality of accounts, each of the accounts having an access code anda balance associated therewith, said method comprising the steps ofstoring a plurality of registered telephone numbers in the database,each of the registered telephone numbers being associated with one ofthe accounts; connecting to the call processor a first telephone calloriginated from a first telephone number; determining whether the firsttelephone number corresponds to one of the registered telephone numbers;if the first telephone number corresponds to one of the registeredtelephone numbers, connecting the first call to a second telephonenumber provided during the call; adding the balance of a first one ofthe accounts to the balance of a second one of the accounts; andassociating the access code of the first one of the accounts with theaccess code of the second one of the accounts.
 2. The method of claim 1,wherein said associating step is being performed such that a secondtelephone call can be made by providing the access code of the first oneof the accounts to the call processor.
 3. The method of claim 2, whereina charge relating to the second call is deducted from the balance of thesecond one of the accounts.
 4. The method of claim 1, wherein thedatabase includes a conversion table having a first field and a secondfield; and wherein the access code of the first one of the accounts andthe access code of the second one of the accounts are added to the firstand second fields, respectively, during the performance of saidassociating step so as to associate the access code of the first one ofthe accounts with the access code of the second one of the accounts. 5.A telecommunication system comprising a call processor; an accountdatabase stored in said call processor and having account recordscorresponding to a plurality of accounts, each of said accountsincluding a balance and an access code associated therewith; and aplurality of registered telephone numbers stored in said database, eachof said registered telephone numbers being associated with one of saidaccounts, said call processor being operative to receive a firsttelephone call originated from a first telephone number, to determinewhether said first telephone number corresponds to one of saidregistered telephone numbers and to connect said first call to a secondtelephone number provided during said first call, if said firsttelephone number corresponds to one of said registered telephonenumbers, wherein said call processor is operative to add said balance ofa first one of said accounts to said balance of a second one of saidaccounts and to associate said access code of said first one of saidaccounts with said access code of said second one of said accounts. 6.The system of claim 5, wherein said access code of said first one ofsaid accounts is associated with said access code of said second one ofsaid accounts such that a second telephone call can be made by providingsaid access code of said first one of said accounts to said callprocessor.
 7. The system of claim 6, wherein a charge relating to saidsecond call is deducted from said balance of said second one of saidaccounts.
 8. The system of claim 5, wherein said database includes aconversion table having a first field and a second field: and whereinsaid access code of said first one of said accounts and said access codeof said second one of said accounts are added to said first and secondfields, respectively, so as to associate said access code of said firstone of said accounts with said access code of said second one of saidaccounts.